The father-of-two, who served nine years in prison after being convicted of grand theft and was described by Stockton police as “one of the most violent criminals in the… area”, said: “I appreciate that but I really just want them to know that this is really not me, I’m not some kingpin.”

According to a fundraising website set up by someone claiming to be Meeks's mother, this is him and his son...

Meanwhile, one woman claiming to be Meeks’s mother has set up a fundraising page with a goal of $25,000.

Along with several pictures of someone who certainly looks like Meeks, is the note: “Please help. My son was taken into custody on his way to work.

And again...

“He is a working man with a son. He is being stereotyped due to old tattoos.”